The Mark Phipps NiHak is a finely tuned small-wave performance surfboard designed to bridge the gap between everyday grovelers and true high-performance shortboards. It’s the model I most often recommend for surfers ready to step up to their first performance board, as well as for experienced riders who want a board that brings genuine spark and agility to weaker conditions. The NiHak blends accessibility with advanced design, giving surfers the ability to push their surfing forward without sacrificing paddle power or stability.
At its core, the NiHak focuses on speed, responsiveness, and flow. The outline is slightly fuller than a standard shortboard, providing extra buoyancy and glide, yet it maintains a refined, tapered tail that allows the board to pivot sharply and hold confidently through turns. This balance helps surfers transition smoothly from trimming to top-to-bottom surfing, even when the waves lack punch. The rocker profile is moderate and carefully calibrated—enough lift in the nose to prevent catching through late drops, and just the right amount of tail rocker for drive and release.
The bottom contours typically feature a single to double concave, accelerating water through the board and generating lift and speed. Combined with the board’s medium, forgiving rails, the NiHak feels lively underfoot while still providing control during fast directional changes. It thrives in waist- to chest-high surf, but its well-rounded design gives it a surprisingly wide range, allowing confident performance as conditions improve.
Perhaps the most notable quality of the NiHak is its approachability. Intermediate surfers will appreciate how easily it paddles and catches waves, while advanced surfers will love its explosive responsiveness in weak surf. Whether you’re stepping into performance shapes for the first time or seeking a small-wave board that doesn’t compromise on speed or maneuverability, the Mark Phipps NiHak delivers a dependable blend of progression, fun, and performance.
| Length | Width | Thickness | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4'11" | 16 1/2" | 2" | 17.35L |
| 5'1" | 16 3/4" | 2" | 17.9L |
| 5'2" | 17' | 2 1/8" | 19.8L |
| 5' 4" | 17 1/2" | 2 1/4" | 22.4L |
| 5'5" | 17 7/8" | 2 1/4" | 23.25L |
| 5'8" | 18 1/8" | 2 3/8" | 26L |
| 5'10" | 18 1/4" | 2 5/16" | 26.5L |
| 5'11" | 18 3/4" | 2 3/8" | 28.5L |
| 6'0" | 19" | 2 3/8" | 28.9L |
| 6'1" | 19 1/4" | 2 7/16" | 30.3L |
| 6'2" | 19 3/8" | 2 5/8" | 33.5L |
| 6'4" | 19 3/4" | 2 5/8" | 36L |
| 6'8" | 20 1/4" | 2 11/16" | 38.5L |
| 6'10" | 20 3/4" | 2 3/4" | 41.5L |
- Thruster
- Futures or FCS2
If you’re ready to order your custom-made Mark Phipps surfboard or you need some more info before deciding which board is best suited to you, phone or email us today.
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